The Nigerian government has announced that the United States has pledged to deliver outstanding military equipment purchased by Nigeria over the past five years, signaling renewed momentum in security cooperation between both countries.
Speaking on Friday after a meeting in Abuja between a U.S. delegation and Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, Information Minister Ibrahim Idris said the pending deliveries would include drones, helicopters, military platforms, spare parts, and support systems.
“We want Nigerians to know that this partnership with the United States is working,” Idris said, describing the engagement as productive and reassuring.
According to the minister, the meeting marked the third high-level engagement between officials of both countries since November, reflecting intensified diplomatic and security dialogue.
One of the key issues discussed was Nigeria’s designation by the United States as a Country of Particular Concern, a congressional classification linked to allegations of religious freedom violations. Idris said recent engagements have helped reframe the issue, turning what had been diplomatic strain into deeper cooperation.
On December 25, the United States carried out airstrikes on Nigerian soil targeting Islamic State fighters in the northwestern state of Sokoto, an operation Nigerian officials say reflects growing trust and coordination between both governments.
“Nigeria is acting decisively. Security agencies have clear instructions to protect communities and respond swiftly to threats,” Idris added.
Nigeria continues to face a complex and multi-layered security crisis, with armed groups carrying out attacks across several regions. Religious centers have increasingly become targets.
In one of the most recent incidents, more than 150 worshippers were abducted during church services in Kurmin Wali, a remote community in Kaduna State. The abduction occurred simultaneously across three churches, according to residents. The kidnappers are reportedly demanding 17 motorcycles as ransom for the release of the hostages.
The government says the renewed U.S. partnership and the delivery of military equipment are expected to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to respond to growing security threats nationwide.
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